Par 3 Contest at the Masters: What Time Does It Start
The Par 3 Contest is the opening amateur event of the Masters Tournament, traditionally held on the Wednesday before the main tournament begins. In local Augusta, Georgia time, it usually starts around 1:30 PM and runs into the early evening. For viewers in other time zones, that translates to roughly 2:30 PM ET and 5:30 PM ET, though exact start times can shift slightly depending on course conditions and the tournament schedule. The event showcases current and past champions, club professionals, celebrities, and amateur club players, delivering a festive yet competitive atmosphere on the par-3 course.
Schedule and Typical Timing
Because the Masters is an invitational major with a fixed first-round date on a set Thursday, the Par 3 Contest serves as the official opening ceremony and is scheduled accordingly. Organizers aim to complete play before nightfall to preserve the primetime television window for the main tournament. The following table summarizes the typical timeline you can expect each year.
| Phase | Typical Timing (Local, ET) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Doors Open | 11:00 AM | Gates open for spectators |
| First Group Tees Off | 1:30 PM | Approximate start; varies by year |
| Final Group Finishes | 4:30–6:00 PM | Often concludes before twilight |
Event Format and Participants
Each group consists of four players, and there are multiple groups across the course. Participants include Masters champions, green jacket winners, club professionals from around the world, honorary starters, and one or two celebrity players. The format is 18 holes of stroke play, with each player hitting from the traditional tees on the par-3 course. While there is no cut and the event is exhibition in spirit, most competitors treat it seriously as a preview of the week ahead.
Notable Traditions and Atmosphere
The Par 3 Contest is known for its relaxed yet respectful environment. Jackets and ties are common among the club professionals, and spectators have excellent opportunities for photos and conversation with players. The galleries tend to be more intimate than on the weekend, giving fans a close-up view of putting and short-iron play on the undulating course. Historically, several players have used this venue to settle nerves and find rhythm before the major begins, though a few have also recorded memorable scores that signal strong form.
Viewing and Broadcast Details
The event receives extensive coverage across global sports networks and is streamed on the Masters Tournament official platforms. Broadcast windows are designed to inform and entertain, with on-course commentary, historical features, and player interviews. For those following from home, the early-afternoon timing usually means daytime viewing in the U.S. with replays often scheduled in primetime. Check the Masters media guide each year for the exact broadcast schedule and streaming options in your region.
Why Timing Matters for Fans and Travelers
Understanding the Par 3 Contest timing helps with planning travel to Augusta National, securing tickets, and coordinating viewing plans. The event sets the tone for the week and offers a rare chance to see legends and current stars in a casual setting. Whether you attend in person or watch from home, knowing when the first tee time occurs allows you to schedule arrival, hospitality, and viewing logistics without missing key moments.
Quick Reference: Typical Par 3 Contest Timeline
- Doors open: Around 11:00 AM local time
- First tee time: Approximately 1:30 PM local time (may vary)
- Play concludes: Generally by late afternoon, before dusk
- Broadcast availability: Live coverage with replays that evening
Par 3 Contest at the Masters: Quick Facts
The table below captures key attributes of the Par 3 Contest for easy reference.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Typical Start Time | 1:30 PM local (varies slightly year to year) | Historical Schedule Data |
| Event Format | 18-hole stroke play, group of four | Masters Tournament Rules |
| Participants | Champions, club pros, honorary, celebrity amateurs | Official Tournament Announcements |
| Location | Par-3 Course, Augusta National Golf Club | Venue Specifications |
| Televised | Yes, global broadcast and streaming | Masters Media Guide |
Planning Your Day Around the Contest
If you are attending in person, arriving at least an hour before your group tees off is recommended. Traffic and parking near the gates can build quickly, and walk times from parking areas to the course can be lengthy. For television viewers, setting reminders based on the translated start time for your local zone ensures you catch the action from the first tee. Remember that weather and course conditions may cause minor adjustments, so checking the official schedule on the Masters website the morning of the event is always wise.
Par 3 Contest Versus Main Tournament Schedule
It is helpful to distinguish the Par 3 Contest from the competitive rounds of the Masters. The main tournament starts on Thursday and runs through Sunday, with specific tee times assigned on a set schedule. The Par 3 Contest on Wednesday is a standalone amateur showcase and does not affect the competitive field or scoring for the official tournament. Understanding this separation avoids confusion when reviewing leaderboards and broadcast windows.
Key Takeaways
- Par 3 Contest typically begins around 1:30 PM local time at Augusta National, often translating to 2:30 PM ET and 5:30 PM ET.
- The event is an 18-hole amateur showcase featuring champions, club pros, and celebrity players.
- Gates usually open near 11:00 AM, with play concluding by late afternoon.
- Broadcast and streaming options provide access for remote viewers on the day of the event.
- Check the official Masters website each year for minor schedule variations due to weather or course conditions.
Conclusion
Knowing what time the Par 3 Contest at the Masters starts is valuable whether you are planning to attend in Augusta or watch from home. The contest kicks off the Masters week with an accessible, fan-friendly format that highlights the skill and personalities behind the sport. By anchoring the event to a midafternoon start, organizers balance competitive play with entertainment, creating a cherished tradition that sets the stage for the major championship to follow.